Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport Overview

Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (IATA: LIR, ICAO: MRLB), commonly known as Liberia International Airport, is the second busiest airport in Costa Rica and a key gateway to the country’s Pacific coast. Located in Liberia, Guanacaste Province, it serves as a vital hub for tourists visiting the country’s northwestern beaches, eco-resorts, and national parks. The airport has seen significant growth in recent years, driven by increased international tourism and infrastructure development.

General Information

  • Location: Liberia, Guanacaste
  • Country: Costa Rica
  • IATA Code: LIR
  • ICAO Code: MRLB
  • Elevation: 269 feet (82 metres)
  • Coordinates: 10°35′39″N 085°32′59″W
  • Airport Type: Public, International
  • Flights: Scheduled international and domestic services
  • Timezone: UTC−6 (Central Standard Time, no DST)
  • Distance from City: Approx. 12 km west of downtown Liberia
  • Website: www.liberiacrairport.com
  • Ground Services: Full commercial, private, and cargo services
  • Operator: Coriport S.A.

Airport Details

  • Runways: 1
  • Runway Designation and Length:
    • 07/25: 2,750 metres (9,022 feet) – Asphalt
  • Runway Surface: Asphalt
  • Runway Strengths: Suitable for narrow and wide-body aircraft
  • Fire Services: ARFF available
  • Tower Frequency: Available
  • Ground Frequency: Available
  • Navigation Assistance: ILS, VOR/DME, GPS
  • Customs: Available
  • Aircraft Types: Up to Code E aircraft
  • Terminals: One main passenger terminal (international and domestic)
  • Cargo: Limited cargo operations supported
  • Fuel: JET A-1 and AVGAS available
  • FBOs: Available (including General Aviation services and VIP lounges)
  • Equipment: Ground support and passenger handling infrastructure available
  • Ground Services: Aircraft marshaling, fueling, catering, lavatory services, GPU

Flight Information

  • Permit Time: 24–48 hours for charter or private aircraft
  • Permission Required: Yes, for private and non-scheduled flights
  • Slots: May be required during peak tourist seasons
  • Backup Airports:
    • SJO: Juan Santamaría International Airport, San José, Costa Rica
    • MGA: Augusto C. Sandino International Airport, Managua, Nicaragua

Contact Information

Visitor Information

  • Immigration Rules: Valid passport; visa requirements vary by nationality
  • Crew Requirements: Passport, license, crew ID; visa may not be required for short stays
  • Transport: Rental cars, taxis, hotel shuttles, and app-based ride services available
  • Accommodation:
    • Liberia City: Includes Hilton Garden Inn Liberia Airport and boutique hotels
    • Resort Areas: Nearby beach towns like Tamarindo, Playa Hermosa, and Papagayo offer luxury stays
  • Currency: Costa Rican Colón (CRC); USD widely accepted in tourist zones

Nearby Attractions

Rincon de la Vieja National Park

Volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, mud baths, and hiking trails in a protected tropical forest.

Playa Hermosa & Playa del Coco

Beautiful beaches ideal for swimming, diving, and watersports, only a short drive from the airport.

Papagayo Peninsula

Home to luxury resorts and pristine coastlines, perfect for upscale travelers and nature lovers.

Palo Verde National Park

A birdwatcher’s paradise with boat tours through wetlands rich in biodiversity.

Liberia City

Colonial architecture, local markets, and a glimpse of authentic Costa Rican culture.

Extra Tips

  • Getting Around: Renting a 4×4 vehicle is recommended for exploring remote areas
  • Travel: Ideal for travelers heading to the Nicoya Peninsula or Guanacaste beaches
  • Best Times to Visit:
    • Dry Season (December–April): Clear skies, perfect for beach holidays
    • Green Season (May–November): Lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and lower prices
  • Tips:
    • Book car rentals and resort stays early, especially during holidays
    • Expect higher traffic during major tourism months
    • Coordinate fuel and handling with your FBO in advance
    • Carry both USD and CRC for convenience in rural areas

Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport is your gateway to Costa Rica’s golden coast, combining modern infrastructure with natural beauty. Check the airport website or FBOs for the latest operational details.